Alaska voters pass Ballot Measure 3 to limit state elections to U.S. citizens

Alaska voters approved Ballot Measure 3 in Tuesday's general election. The measure, known as the United States Citizens Voter Act, passes with the goal of clarifying state law. It expressly states that only United States citizens may vote in state elections.

The initiative was driven by a group of former state leaders. Former Senate Majority Leader John Coghill served as a primary sponsor. Former House Speaker Mike Chenault acted as a co-sponsor. Former Senator Josh Revak was the third sponsor. The group, Alaskans for Citizen Voting, issued a statement thanking voters for their support.

Coghill said the result shows Alaskans have spoken clearly. He noted that the passage affirms citizenship as a fundamental qualification for voting. He expressed gratitude to the thousands of Alaskans who signed petitions and volunteered their time. Their efforts helped bring the question before the voters.

Chenault described the measure as common sense. He said it is consistent with what most Alaskans believe should be the law. He pointed out that approximately two dozen cities and local jurisdictions across the country have authorized some form of noncitizen voting. Other major cities have considered doing the same. Chenault said the sponsors took a proactive approach to make election laws clear and unambiguous. He stated that Alaskans have made it clear that voting is a right reserved for United States citizens.

Revak called voting one of the most important responsibilities and privileges of American citizenship. He thanked Alaskans across the state who participated in the election. He also thanked those who worked to put the measure on the ballot. He said their efforts made it possible for voters to decide the question directly.

The measure now becomes state law. It serves to define the eligibility requirements for state elections. The sponsors credited the direct participation of voters in deciding this issue.